University of East Anglia (UEA) researchers have published a proof-of-concept paper regarding a resin for the 3D printing of IOLs, which could enhance the manufacture of such implants for cataract and refractive surgery, according to a UEA press release. The proof-of-concept paper is the first in a series that showed 3D-printed IOLs can be folded, have good optical clarity, and can be implanted into a human capsular bag.1
“…While still in the early stages, the ability to 3D print these lenses could significantly enhance eye care for patients by offering unprecedented levels of customization and design precision, potentially leading to better clinical outcomes,” explained Aram Saeed, MD, one of the researchers and an associate professor in Healthcare Technologies at UEA’s School of Pharmacy.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office awarded the researchers, known as UEA Enterprise Limited, a patent on the resin. CP
1. Alvarez-Hildalgo V, Falcon ND, Eldred J, Wormstone M, Saeed A. Stereolithographic Rapid Prototyping of Clear, Foldable, Non-refractive Intraocular Lens Designs: A Proof-of-Concept Study. Curr Eye Res. 2024 19:1-10.
Photo Courtesy: Aram Saaed